In the silence I AM. I speak to the recesses of your mind. I speak to the depth of your heart.

As you lean into all who have gone before you know the Communion of Saints is present for you. Here and now. The Church Triumphant, in cheers and praise and gratitude, over one lost sheep who has returned. The Church Penitent interceding for each of you as you lean into the story of your own hearts.

A story pierced with anguish and sorrow. A story filled with joy and praise. The story of your life unfolding in time and space.

I AM the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. The author and finisher of your faith.

As you venerate St Patritii, E. C. (Latin for St Patrick, Bishop and Confessor), know your lives are no different. You are called. You each have a journey. You each have free will to follow where I lead.

“Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” -- Matthew 10:16

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Inspiration for this writing was taken from the stained-glass windows at St Pius V-Cherry Mound. Fr Philip Agyei, on a surprise stop, had graced us with a beautiful blessing before leaving us to write. I sat in silence before the St Patritii Relic (borrowed from St Patrick-Waukon) and, as I quieted my mind, admiring the sun shining through the windows, I began to write.